Atopic eczema – fold eczema

Atopic Eczema – Flexural Eczema – Facts & Advice | Recetas Medicas

Atopic eczema is a chronic skin disease characterized by dry skin and itchy rashes. The disease is common and can vary in severity. In children, eczema often occurs in the folds where the joints bend, and therefore atopic eczema is also called bend fold eczema. Atopic eczema causes an inflammation in the skin that depends on factors such as heredity, environment and the individual's skin flora. The disease cannot be cured, but there are treatments that can alleviate the symptoms.

What is atopic eczema?

Atopic eczema (or atopic dermatitis) is a very common skin disease and in Sweden at least 20% of all children are affected. The symptoms usually begin before the age of two, but the disease can also start later in life. Atopic eczema is characterized by dry, itchy and inflamed skin. The disease is most common in the flexor folds, such as knee folds and arm folds, but can also occur on other parts of the body. The condition varies in severity and can affect both children and adults. Atopic eczema can't be cured, but for many the problems lessen over the years.

Atopic eczema is linked to other atopic symptoms. Atopy is a genetic tendency to develop allergic reactions and conditions such as asthma, pollen allergy and eczema. It is not unusual to have problems with several of these symptoms during different periods of life. Children who have parents or siblings who have had atopic eczema, asthma or hay fever have a greater risk of developing the same symptoms.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms of atopic eczema are dry, itchy skin, redness and inflammation. Skin rashes often appear in the creases, but can also appear on the face, neck, chest, stomach and hands. In children under two years of age, it is common for the first rashes to appear on the cheeks. Adults can also get eczema around the eyes.

In atopic eczema, the skin flakes and you can get small blisters that liquefy and form small sores. The itching in atopic eczema can be very intense, especially at night, which can lead to poorer sleep. The skin in areas with eczema may become thick and wrinkled if you have been scratching a lot.

Causes of atopic eczema

Although the exact cause of atopic eczema is unknown, research points to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The skin's barrier function is often reduced in people with atopic eczema, which makes the skin more vulnerable to irritants and allergens. Environmental factors such as dry air, especially during the Swedish winter, and exposure to irritants can worsen the condition.

Atopic eczema and milk allergy

Atopic eczema and milk allergy can sometimes go together, especially in young children. It is important for parents of children with atopic eczema to observe if the eczema gets worse after consuming milk products and to discuss this with a doctor for possible investigation and adapted treatment. Other food allergies can also trigger atopic eczema.

Treatment of atopic eczema

Treatment of atopic eczema focuses on moisturizing the skin, relieving symptoms and reducing inflammation. This is done by using emollient creams and ointments daily to keep the skin soft and prevent dryness. Often you need to lubricate the skin several times a day. It can take a lot of time but is necessary to relieve the discomfort. It is also important to continue lubricating even during periods of minor discomfort, to avoid the eczema from flaring up again.

Cortisone ointments have an important role in reducing inflammation and reducing itching. For more severe cases, a doctor may recommend stronger treatments, such as medical light therapy or drugs that suppress the immune system's overreaction.

Cortisone ointments have an important role in reducing inflammation and reducing itching.

What can I do myself?

• Keep the skin moisturized - lubricate often and abundantly, even when you don't have any problems.
• Use mild skin care products and avoid irritants.
• Identify and avoid triggers that can make the eczema worse.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing made of soft, breathable materials.
• Take shorter showers and preferably don't shower every day if you don't have to.
• Avoid showering or bathing hot, use cooler water instead.
• Keep your nails short so you don't scratch the skin.
• Wash clothes and bedding with gentle and perfume-free detergents.
• Use a humidifier in dry indoor environments.
• Keep the bedroom cool.

Diet, stress and other lifestyle factors

Certain lifestyle changes can also help reduce the symptoms of atopic eczema:

• Diet: Certain foods can worsen symptoms. Milk allergy and other food allergies may have a connection with atopic eczema. Try to exclude foods that you suspect aggravate your eczema.
• Stress: Your eczema can get worse if you are stressed. Find ways to manage and reduce stress. What works may vary from person to person.
• Sleep: Itching and discomfort can disrupt sleep, which in turn can worsen eczema. If it itches a lot at night, you can use cotton gloves when you sleep.
• Alcohol: Your eczema can get worse if you drink a lot of alcohol.

Alternative explanations

Atopic eczema is a complex skin disease that requires an individualized treatment plan. By combining medical treatment with lifestyle changes and good skin care, you can often reduce the symptoms of the disease.

The problems and symptoms of atopic eczema are similar to those of many other types of eczema. You can also get rashes from causes other than eczema, such as viral infections, allergies and fungi. Contact a doctor for an assessment if you get a rash that you don't know what's causing it.